Fluorescence Imaging with Peak Frequency Maps for Lymphatic Assessment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for diagnosing and treating lymphatic dysfunction, particularly lymphedema, lack precision and rely heavily on subjective interpretations, and existing fluorescence imaging techniques struggle with accurately analyzing time-intensity curves to assess lymphatic function.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for enhanced fluorescence imaging that captures and analyzes time-resolved fluorescence images, generating peak frequency maps and superimposing them with visible light images to provide precise diagnostic information on lymphatic function, using multiple fluorescent agents and simultaneous image capture to enhance accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If fluorescence imaging is used to diagnose lymphatic dysfunction, then diagnostic capability is improved, but measurement precision of time-intensity curves deteriorates due to difficulty in accurately analyzing lymphatic transport patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing system that includes a time-intensity curve generation unit and a lymphatic function assessment unit. This intermediary processing layer transforms raw fluorescence image data into standardized time-intensity curves, which then serve as the basis for accurate lymphatic function assessment, resolving the contradiction between diagnostic capability and measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual or subjective analysis methods with an automated image processing system that generates time-intensity curves through systematic algorithms. This substitution of mechanical/automated processing for manual analysis eliminates human error and subjectivity, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining enhanced diagnostic capability
2Measurement precision
If multiple fluorescent agents are used to enhance diagnostic accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to need for simultaneous multi-wavelength imaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal image capturing device capable of simultaneous multi-wavelength imaging. This multi-functional device can capture fluorescence signals from multiple different fluorescent agents at different wavelengths concurrently, eliminating the need for separate imaging systems and thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high diagnostic accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the imaging capabilities for multiple wavelengths into a single integrated system. By combining multiple fluorescent agent detection functions into one device with simultaneous imaging capability, the system achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing device complexity, as the imaging functions are unified rather than duplicated
3Loss of information
If time-resolved fluorescence imaging is performed to analyze lymphatic transport, then information completeness is improved, but loss of time increases due to repeated image capture over time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous fluorescence image capture over a predetermined time period to generate time-intensity curves. This continuous imaging approach ensures complete information about lymphatic transport dynamics is captured without interruption, achieving maximum information completeness. The automated processing then efficiently analyzes this continuous data stream, minimizing the practical time loss despite the extended capture duration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables precise and reliable diagnosis and treatment of lymphatic dysfunction by providing objective data on lymphatic transport, allowing for tailored therapies and improved risk prediction through AI models, enhancing diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.
Implementation Method 1
The dye emits fluorescent light when exited with near infrared light having a wavelength between 600 nm and 800 nm. Due to this excitation, ICG emits fluorescence light between 750 nm and 950 nm.
Data Source
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AI summary
An image capturing and processing device 2 configured to measure a fluorescence signal in a tissue of a body part 4 and to image a surface of the body part. The device 2 comprising a fluorescence imaging unit 22 configured to capture a fluorescence image 7 and a visible light imaging unit 24 configured to capture a visible light image 5. The fluorescence imaging unit 22 is further configured to capture a time sequence of fluorescence images 7. A peak frequency map unit 60 is configured to determine a peak frequency map for an area of interest in the fluorescence images by analyzing the time sequence of fluorescence images 7. The analysis comprising: determining a time-dependent intensity curve, identifying peaks in the time-dependent intensity curve and determining a frequency of the identified peaks and/or a maximum high of the identified peaks, generating a graphic representation of the determined frequency and/or maximum high and including the same in the peak frequency map. An output unit is configured to output the peak frequency map together with the visible light image 5 and/or the fluorescence image 7.